One thing I have loved about this summer is having a garden of our own! It’s been a learning experience to say the least;). Where I live, we have a very clay-like soil, so it’s taken some learning curves to learn how to grow things using this particular soil. But we are beginning to see the fruits of our labor (bah-dum-ch! ;) ), and it’s been so fun! Our kids especially have been enjoying the process, calling it “my garden” and helping with all the watering and weeding.

One of our favorite things we have been growing is basil. There is something so refreshing about the smell of fresh basil- especially when you’re the one that grew it;). My kids love giving it a smell and watching it grow as we have snipped off the tops to help it grow big and bushy!

To be honest, I haven’t always loved basil- I used to associate it with tomato sauce, which, if you read my article about lasagna last week- you know is something I do NOT like ;). However, as I have branched out with other foods and my tastebuds have developed a little better;) , I have come to really appreciate the flavor a few leaves of fresh basil can bring to a dish! I can’t say I love it as much as my hubby ;), but I’m getting there!

We recently found a recipe that uses a lot of fresh basil that we both ADORE. Not only is it a great way to use up any fresh basil you have lying around, but it’s easy and it’s the perfect summer sandwich, especially as all your tomatoes start becoming ready to harvest.

Italian Grilled Cheese and Tomato Sandwiches!

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These are seriously super tasty. They are easy to put together, and have such a fresh taste! All you need to do is heat a couple cloves of garlic in a pan with some oil, and let let the bread soak up the oil. Add provolone, tomatoes, basil, and salt and pepper. Put the other piece of bread on top and cook both sides until they are slightly browned and the cheese is melted. That’s it!

I’ve tried a few other variation, using pesto and mozzarella, and honestly- they’re just not as good! (At least in the opinion of myself and my husband ;) ). It also doesn’t help when you burn the sandwiches…..Let’s just say that from personal experience, I can promise you that these are sandwiches you don’t want to rush ;). But the little time and patience it takes to make these are so worth it!

I hope you and your family enjoy these sandwiches as much as we do! Do you have any favorite ways to use up fresh basil? Please share in the comments below!